How to Teach Kids About Saving Money in Indian Country
- cjoycolton5
- Jan 23
- 2 min read
Teaching children about saving money is an investment in their future and the future of your tribal community. By instilling good financial habits early on, you can empower them to achieve their dreams, build a strong financial foundation, and contribute to the well-being of their community. This guide offers practical tips and culturally relevant activities to help you teach your kids about saving money in Indian Country.

1. Start Early and Make it Fun
Introduce Basic Concepts: Even young children can grasp the concept of saving. Use simple language and relatable examples to explain how saving works.
Make it a Game: Turn saving into a fun activity by using a piggy bank, creating a savings chart, or setting up a pretend store.
Connect to Cultural Traditions: Share stories about traditional practices of saving and resource management, such as preserving food for the winter or saving seeds for the next planting season.
2. Set Goals and Celebrate Successes
Help Them Set Savings Goals: Encourage your children to set specific savings goals, such as buying a new toy, saving for a family trip, or contributing to a community project.
Visualize Progress: Use a visual aid, like a progress chart or a jar filled with beads, to help them track their savings and see their progress.
Celebrate Milestones: Acknowledge and celebrate their achievements when they reach their savings goals. This helps reinforce positive financial habits.
3. Teach by Example
Share Your Own Savings Habits: Talk to your children about your own savings goals and how you're working towards them.
Involve Them in Financial Decisions: When appropriate, involve your children in family discussions about budgeting and financial planning.
Show Them the Impact of Saving: Explain how saving can help them achieve their dreams and contribute to the well-being of their family and community.
4. Connect Saving to Tribal Values
Community and Sharing: Encourage your children to save for community projects or to help others in need.
Sustainability and Resource Management: Teach them about the importance of conserving resources and making sustainable choices, such as reducing waste and saving energy.
Long-Term Planning: Explain how saving can help them prepare for the future and build a strong foundation for their families and communities.
5. Utilize Resources and Tools
Children's Books: Read books about saving money together.
Educational Games: Play games that teach financial concepts and skills.
NFDC Resources: Explore NFDC's financial education resources and programs designed specifically for Native American youth.
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